PSY15U

Psychology
and Counselling
Undergraduate Prospectus
2014/2015
I did it.
I like the way you study, the flexibility.
Thematerials were brilliant and my tutors
were immensely helpful. The feedback you
get from them is very good and the written
feedback is constructive. You meet other
students in your first year and see them all
the way through. We even arranged revision
groups when exams were approaching.
Catherine Flint, OU graduate
You can
do it too.
Change your life in five simple steps
Everything you need to know to make a start
on changing your life is right here in your hands.
Read on and find out why we have some of the
most satisfied students in the UK, then follow
these simple steps to join them
Choose your qualification
Contents
Decide on the qualification you want to study, for example,

a BSc (Hons) Psychology.
Wherever youre going, it starts here
For more information, click www.openuniversity.co.uk/ug.
Theres nothing distant about us
Register
To secure your place, you need to register dont worry,

theres nothing to pay at this stage. Register online at
www.openuniversity.co.uk/ug or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90
once youve registered, well send you an email with login
details so you can move on to the next step.
Why choose us for psychology

and counselling?
Get the kind of CV employers

are looking for
Choose your first module
Undergraduate study
10
Some of the modules in your chosen qualification will be

compulsory, others will be optional. When youve decided
on your first module(s), we will ask you to confirm, and
tell us how you intend to fund your studies. Theres still
no need to make a payment at this point.
Becoming an Open University student
40
Sort out your funding
We can help you manage the costs, making study more

affordable than you might think. Depending on where you
live, we offer a variety of ways to pay find out more on
pages 4044.
Complete your registration
Finally, well need a few personal details and your

payment method or loan reference number. You can
give us this information online, or call +44 (0)845 300 60 90
and thats it youre a fully-fledged OU student and ready
to getgoing.
Any questions about

studying with us?
Back cover
Wherever youre going,

it starts here.
The launch of The Open University changed the landscape of higher education
forever. The principle we were founded on that the very highest standard of
education should be accessible by the many, not the few still drives everything
we do. Its why were the undisputed experts in part-time study and why more adults
choose the OU to help them get ahead than any other university.
Were the UKs largest university

We offer one of the widest choices of qualifications in a broad
range of subjects. Four out of ten of all part-time undergraduate
students in the UK study with us and over 1000 tutorials are held
across the UK every week.
Weve spent over 40 years honing our methods, harnessing new
and emerging technologies, and drawing on an unrivalled level
of practical experience to make sure every student has the best
possible chance to learn, achieve andsucceed.
The OU rekindled my joy of learning things just

for the sake of learning them. It was fantastic to
have access to these people who knew so much
more than me.
Philip Vincent, OU student
Were experts in flexible,

part-time study
No-one understands how to help students succeed and make
knowledge stick better than us were the experts in parttime
study. To do what we do successfully, year after year, requires
exceptional technology, methods and staff. The way we work,
works not least because its flexible enough to work around you
and your life.
So, whether youre a crofter in the Shetland Isles or an
engineer on a nuclear submarine, a working parent or a retired
grandparent, our methods are tried, tested andproven.
FACT
Someone logs onto our servers

every 0.5 seconds.
An OU qualification says
employ me
An OU qualification on your CV shows more than your level of
knowledge about a subject. It demonstrates to employers that
youre someone who is up for a challenge and committed to
successfully seeing it through, with excellent time management
and prioritising skills. Just the kind of person, in fact, that
employers are looking for, which is why organisations like
KPMG, the Metropolitan Police Service and Unilever work with
ourCareers Advisory Service to recruit OU students.
With us, you dont have to put your life on hold to get
the qualification you need. Around 70 per cent of our
students fit study around their job and busy, changing
lives. Whether you want to start a new career or go
further in your current job, we can help. Find out more at
www.openuniversity.co.uk/careers-subjects.
We offer outstanding value

for money
We understand that when youre investing your time, effort and
money into studying, you need to know that the qualification
you get at the end is worthwhile. So ask anyone who knows
us whether studying for an OU qualification is worth it. Ask our
540,000 alumni, or the 30,000 employers that have chosen us to
develop their workforce organisations like the NHS, John Lewis
and O2. Were confident that their answer will be yes.
And it isnt just about getting the most out of the money you
spend. You save money with us, too. You wont need to move
away to a campus-based university, or pay extra travel expenses.
And because you have the flexibility to carry on working, you can
earn while you learn.
Were one of the worlds finest

universities
Anyone who wonders whether the way we do things means
cutting corners on the quality of the education we provide should
consider this: our learning materials are so good, over two thirds
of the 100 largest universities in the UK use them too.
Everything we do is grounded in the research were
internationally famous for OU research changes the world.
Its this reputation as one of the worlds finest research
universities that makes our qualifications so highly respected
and our learning materials so sought after.
Were more local than you think

Many people are surprised to learn that we operate from
13OU offices located right around the UK. Why not come
and talk to us at a regional event? You can find one nearest
to you at www.openuniversity.co.uk/events.
Were just a phone call away

Students get excellent study assistance from student support
teams specialist teams dedicated to helping students
successfully complete their modules. Once you are registered as
a student, you will have access to these specialist teams. If youd
like to find out more, contact our Student Registration & Enquiry
Service on +44 (0)845 300 60 90.
Students love us
In 2013, the OU once again kept its place in the top five of all UK
universities for student satisfaction, the only university to have
achieved this every year since the survey began in 2005.
Theres nothing
distant about us.
Weve taken distance learning to a whole new, incredibly
supportive level many students whove studied elsewhere
say that theyve been better supported at the OU than at
campus-based universities.
Every year, we help thousands of ordinary people achieve

extraordinary things using our unique method of Supported
Open Learning. Its different to other methods because it
combines more one-to-one contact than distance learning with
more flexibility than campus-based learning. We blend the
best of technology and tutoring to let you decide how you want
tostudy.
Its this unique combination of flexibility and support that makes
Supported Open Learning such a successful way to learn.
Whether youre at home, at work or on the move, your tutor, study
advisers and other students are as close as you need them to
be online, on email, on the phone and face to face.
FACT
Supported Open Learning has

helped over 1.8 million students
get to where they want to be.
Whats it like being part of

the worlds largest student
community? Ask them
New students are often surprised by how social studying with
the OU can be, but a large and lively student community is part
and parcel of being the UKs largest provider of part-time higher
education. Whenever you log on, our online forums are alive with
people like you, and the opportunity to socialise doesnt stop when
you log off. Our students regularly get together, either to attend an
OU tutorial or as part of a local study group.
Our world-class library is

open all hours
As an OU student youll have free access to the OUs huge online
library to help you research and complete your assignments.
There are thousands of online ejournals, ebooks, databases and
multimedia resources for you to tap into, 24 hours a day, seven
days a week, whenever you need them and wherever you are.
And its worth visiting the library at our Milton Keynes campus in
person if you can its a brilliantly inspiring place.
Support that continues when

your studies end
Once youve achieved your qualification, youll be invited to join
the OU Alumni Association. With 540,000 members, its a vibrant
community and a great way to connect and network with people
like you.
Studying at home was ideal for me. I didnt want

to be away from my children any more than I had
to, so it meant I could juggle my role as a mum
and fit my study around home life.
Clare Chambers, OU graduate
We can help you approach your

employer for sponsorship
A world-class education for

anyone who wants it
When it comes to managing the cost of your study, youve got

options see pages 4044 but did you know that 80 per cent
of FTSE100 companies have sponsored staff to study with us?
There are many commercially sensible reasons for organisations
to help fund your personal and professional development with
us to find out more, call our Student Registration & Enquiry
Service on +44 (0)845 300 60 90.
At the OU, we believe it doesnt matter where you start from

its where you want to be and how committed you are to getting
there that matters.
Ive been dipping in and out of the OU for the last

decade, and have always found the modules to be
a fantastic way of learning new skills, and keeping
my techniques and knowledge up-to-date.
Simon Sixsmith, OU student
Because we know that the grades you got at school arent the
only measure of ability, you dont need any previous academic
qualifications to study with us. You may, for example, discover
the skills youve gained through working will help your studies.
If you want it badly enough, well do everything we can to help
you achieve a qualification perhaps thats why more people
choose us every year than any other UK university.
We support disabled students

The unrivalled personal support we offer combined with our
multimedia learning methods and the ability to study at your
own pace means were perfectly placed to make study
accessible to almost everyone. You may also be eligible for
extra help with study and travel costs. To find out more, call our
Student Registration & Enquiry Service on +44 (0)845 300 60 90,
or click www.openuniversity.co.uk/disability.
Free tasters
If youre worried about your study skills, the free taster courses
at www.open.edu/openlearn are there to help you prove you
can do it. There are over 600 to choose from, ranging from
introductory to postgraduate level, each taking between one
and 50 hours to complete.
Why choose us for psychology

and counselling?
Psychology the study of mental life and behaviour
is a fascinating subject in its own right.
A dynamic discipline that crosses all cultures and has global

relevance, it centres on the study of people in all their diversity.
A psychology qualification will equip you with skills and
knowledge that are relevant to life and society, not just
employment. We study behaviour to better understand the mind.
Questions that psychologists consider are both diverse and
intriguing, many of which straddle disciplines such as biology,
criminology, education, linguistics, neuroscience, philosophy
and sociology.
Studying psychology will help you gain an understanding of
issues such as why only some people develop addictions, why
people commit certain types of crime, the nature of young
childrens thinking, why languages all seem to follow certain
structures, what actually goes on in the brain when a person
tells a lie, and how we use social networking media, such as
Facebook and Twitter.
At the OU, we have national and international experts
specialising in areas such as cognition, criminology and
forensic psychology, developmental studies, discourse analysis,
neuropsychology and psychosocial studies.
Our teaching, which was rated as excellent at the last
assessment by the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), is
supported by an active research agenda.
New for 2014

This year we are introducing three further degrees in psychology:
BSc (Hons) Forensic Psychology
BSc (Hons) Psychology with Counselling
BSc (Hons) Social Psychology.
Each of these degrees is designed to deliver the requirements
for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of
the British Psychological Society (BPS), and we are presently
seeking BPS accreditation.
Our BSc (Hons) Psychology was also redesigned for 2014 to
incorporate new modules.
The OU Psychological Society (OUPS)

OUPS is now one of the largest student societies affiliated
to our student association (OUSA), with over 1700 members
(including graduate members). The 15 annual membership
fee is quickly recovered through discounts on events, and
members also receive a quarterly newsletter.
Our research not only informs policy and practice, it also

energises our curriculum. For example, our social psychology
curriculum is recognised for presenting an alternative and
stimulating approach to teaching this important branch
of psychology.
The Societys primary purpose is to advance education in

psychology among members of the OU. This is achieved
through a variety of events, such as overview and revision
days, and weekend summer schools that complement the
OU psychology modules. Many students have benefited from
these weekends and return year after year.
Psychologists working within the Faculties of Education and

Language Studies, Science and Social Sciences all contribute to
our extensive, cross-faculty programme.
Conferences, held in conjunction with the summer schools,

attract many famous speakers and broaden students
understanding of psychology as a discipline or profession.
Our Foundation Degree in Counselling and Diploma of Higher

Education in Counselling are provided in partnership with the
Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding
Body (CPCAB).
If you want to know more, including finding out about

forthcoming events and conferences, visit the website
www.oups.org.uk, or contact the OUPS Administrator on
+44 (0)20 8315 0049, or email info@oups.org.uk.
Get the kind of CV employers

are looking for.
Your route to self-improvement, skills development
and career enhancement.
Psychology is about people and uses a variety of ways to

investigate how we think, act and interact with each other.
Psychology can also help you find answers to questions like:
How does memory work: why do we forget some things,
yetvividly remember others?
What causes stress and depression?
As an OU psychology student, you will also have the opportunityto:

learn about the fundamental conceptual issues in psychology
understand the different ways in which psychological
knowledge can be constructed
develop a range of research skills
How did I become who I am?
combine your study of psychology with other disciplines,

such as biology, business, computer science, education,
health science, law and philosophy.
Psychology is intrinsically of great interest to people and is a

broad and dynamic academic discipline which:
Studying the OU Foundation Degree in Counselling will enable

you to develop skills that appeal to employers such as:
can enhance understanding of human behaviour
communication and literacy
uses diverse forms of investigation to develop theories that

relate to mind and behaviour
self management
has many sub-disciplines or specialisations, which for

undergraduate study are broadly those of biopsychology,
cognition, development, individual differences and
socialpsychology.
The professional skills gained by students of counselling that

willbe transferable to many other roles include the ability to:
What impact does divorce have on families?
The value of counselling to improve wellbeing and quality of life

is increasingly recognised in society. From everyday worries to
serious mental health issues like chronic anxiety and depression,
counsellors and psychotherapists are in demand to help people
cope with the stresses and strains of life.
OU study develops the skills

youneed in the workplace
Whatever your motivations for study, your goals and career
aspirations, we offer you supported personal development
planning either as an intrinsic part of your programme of study
or through signposted optional activities.
Your psychology studies will help you develop a broad set of
graduate level abilities that appeal to prospective employers
such as:
communication skills
data analysis and IT skills
problem-solving and reasoning skills.
problem solving.
practise safely and effectively in a recognised model

of counselling
act in accordance with the relevant legal, ethical and
procedural boundaries
make professional judgements and interventions
reflect on, review and audit your professional practice.
You can find out more at
www.openuniversity.co.uk/employability.
Where could your psychology and

counselling qualification take you?
You can use the knowledge and skills you develop as an OU
psychology student or graduate to take advantage of exciting
and challenging job opportunities in areas such as:
advertising and marketing
education
the health professions (including social services)
human resources.
Bear in mind that careers as a professional psychologist in the
applied areas of psychology will require further study, training
and/or work experience beyond your degree. The Health and
Care Professions Council (HCPC) regulated titles include:
clinical psychologist
counselling psychologist
educational psychologist
forensic psychologist
health psychologist
occupational psychologist
sports and exercise psychologist.
For more information, click www.hpc-uk.org.
The British Psychological Society(BPS)

The BPS is the representative professional body for psychology
and psychologists in the UK. It specifies the requirements
for, and recognises and approves the content of, psychology
qualifications that grant eligibility for the Graduate Basis for
Chartered Membership. You can then go on to take recognised
masters or doctorate professional qualifications (registered-topractise) and/or, through appropriate PhD completion, you can
become a Chartered Psychologist. Click www.bps.org.uk for
more details.
The Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI)

This is a similar professional body to the BPS. The main aim of
the PSI is to advance psychology as a pure and applied science
in Ireland and elsewhere. Click www.psihq.ie to learn more
about the PSI.
Counselling
The OU Foundation Degree in Counselling will prepare you
to become a professional counsellor, equipping you with the
theoretical understanding and practical skills required to work
inthis field.
You can use the knowledge and skills you develop to seek job
opportunities in areas within health, social care and education
such as:
psychological wellbeing practitioner (PWP)
family support worker
Becoming a professional psychologist

Our BSc (Hons) Psychology degree is accredited by the British
Psychological Society (BPS) as conferring eligibility for the
Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC), provided
you obtain a lower second-class honours degree or better.
Topractise as a chartered psychologist you will also need to
undertake postgraduate education and supervised practice.
career counsellor.
To find out more about career opportunities
related to psychology and counselling click
www.openuniversity.co.uk/psychology-careers.
We advise you to research your career choices as early
as possible to clarify specific qualification and experience
requirements and to identify opportunities available within
yourlocality.
Where have our previous

graduates ended up?
We dont just teach people.

We help them get on
All UK graduates are invited to complete the Destinations of

Leavers from Higher Education Survey six months after they have
graduated. Of the graduates on the OU psychology degree who
responded to the latest survey:
Our Careers Advisory Service website

www.openuniversity.co.uk/careers provides information on all
aspects of career planning, from deciding on the right career for
you, to help with writing CVs, making effective applications and
advice on interview techniques. You can also read real stories
from OU students about the ways OU study changed or helped
progress their career.
76 per cent were in work, including those both working and

studying
21 per cent were doing further study (whether working or not)
in subjects such as biological sciences, subjects allied to
medicine, education and social studies
those who had changed employer and for whom their
qualification was either required or an advantage had found
employment in roles including senior residential support
worker, private sector partnerships executive, human
resources manager and research assistant.
Combining work and study shows that OU

students are ambitious and have a strong
work ethic. They are evidently keen to develop
themselves and are managing to do this while
juggling a busy work or home life which is no
mean feat. The competencies which OU students
therefore develop during their degree become
invaluable to us.
Graduate Recruitment Manager, Unilever
As an OU student (or if you have studied with the OU within the

last three years) you will have access via the careers website
to the full range of support offered by the Careers Advisory
Service, including:
Online forums where you can ask careers advisers questions
and share experiences with other students.
Individual careers consultations with careers advisers.
Employer Showcase where you can see profiles of employers
who are keen to recruit OU graduates.
Online vacancy service to help you find paid and voluntary
job opportunities.
Advice on gaining work experience/internships.
Online resources to help enhance your employability.
Ive used the OUs Careers Advisory Service to

work out where Im going to go next. The career
advice isfantastic.
Emma Percy, OU student
Live outside the UK?

Students based outside the UK can use the full range of
resources available on the careers website, including the facility
to request a consultation with a careers adviser and access
to job information and online forums. In addition, we provide
information about: the job market in specific countries; applying
for jobs; vacancy sources; and gaining work experience.
10
Undergraduate
study.
The Open University is one of Europes largest
providers of university-level education in psychology.
How you study with us

Getting started with an
Access module
11
14
Undergraduate qualifications
in a named subject
16
Degrees (with BPS accreditation)
16
BSc (Hons) Psychology (Q07)
16
NEW BSc (Hons) Forensic Psychology (Q82)1
18
NEW BSc (Hons) Social Psychology (Q83)1
20
NEW BSc (Hons) Psychology

with Counselling (Q84)1
22
Other degrees that include psychology 24

BA (Hons) Combined Social Sciences
(Psychology) (Q69)
24
BSc (Hons) Computing & IT and

Applied Psychology (Q67)
Pending confirmation from the
British Psychological Society (BPS)
Theres more online

To find out more about a qualification that interests
you and to register, enter the qualification code in the
search box at www.openuniversity.co.uk/search.
26
BSc (Hons) Criminology and

Psychological Studies (Q48)
28
BA (Hons) Philosophy and

30
Foundation degree/
Diplomas of higher education
31
Foundation Degree in Counselling (X09)/

Diploma of Higher Education in Counselling (W09) 31
NEW Diploma of Higher Education
in Psychology (W45)
33
Certificate of higher education
33
NEW Certificate of Higher Education

in Psychology (T22)
33
Open qualifications
34
Undergraduate modules
36
Undergraduate study
11
How you study with us

The best thing about The Open University is that, within
reason, you call the shots. When you study, where you study
its all up to you.
Heres how it works

To achieve your chosen qualification, you need
to build up a set number of credits.
Foundation degrees
240 credits
Foundation degrees are equivalent to two thirds of an honours
degree and focus either on a particular job or profession; they
combine work-focused learning with academic study and are
designed and developed with external partners. They aim to
enhance the professional and technical skills of staff within a
profession or those intending to go into that profession. Most of
our foundation degrees are also offered as diplomas of higher
education for those living and working in Scotland.
Diplomas of higher education (DipHEs)

240 credits
You get credits by successfully completing a series of

modules, each teaching specific skills some modules
are worth more credits than others. Some modules will be
compulsory, others will be optional.
It is not necessary to plan your entire qualification upfront.

When you register on your qualification, well only ask
you to choose the module(s) you intend to study in your
first year.
Choosing your qualification

At the OU you can register for either a qualification in a
named subject, such as our BSc (Hons) Psychology, or for an
Open qualification that lets you build a qualification that is
tailored to your needs and interests.
Degrees
360 credits
An undergraduate or bachelors degree is a widely recognised
higher-education qualification that can help you progress in
your career. While you are studying for your degree you will
learn about your chosen subject(s) and develop your analytical,
intellectual and writing skills.
Degree-level study will demonstrate that you can understand
complex information, meet deadlines, work independently and in
a team, solve problems, and communicate with others effectively.
All our degrees are honours degrees. Like all universities based
in the UK, well grade your degree into one of four classes:
1 (first the highest level), 2.1 (upper second), 2.2 (lower
second) or 3 (third).
DipHEs are equivalent to two thirds of an honours degree and

focus either on a particular job or profession, or academic study.
DipHEs are designed to increase the professional and technical
skills of staff within a profession or extend your knowledge and
understanding of a particular subject. Like a foundation degree,
a DipHE shows that you are capable of extended study at
university level.
Certificates of higher education (CertHEs)

120 credits
CertHEs are equivalent to the first year of an honours degree
and focus either on a particular job or profession, or academic
study. A CertHE is a basic-level qualification and shows that you
are capable of studying successfully at university level.
There are no entry requirements

but you do need:
A computer and reliable internet access theyre an
essential part of our study programmes. Depending on where
you live and how much you earn, you could receive financial
help to buy a computer.
A good grasp of the English language our modules
are taught in English and you need to be a competent user
of the English language to study at higher-education level.
If youre not sure, help and guidance is available
at www.openuniversity.co.uk/englishlanguage.
Feeling a bit rusty when it

comes to studying?
If youre lacking confidence or havent studied for a while,
you may want to consider starting your studies with one of our
introductory Access modules. These modules are designed to
help you build confidence, develop study skills and prepare you
for further study.
To find out more, see pages 1415 or click
www.openuniversity.co.uk/ug-access.
12
Choosing your modules

one stage at a time
Planning your time
Most qualifications have one, two or three stages. The modules

that make up each stage are set at different levels, according
to their relative complexity and/or depth of learning.
Qualification
Credits required
at each stage
Total
credits
required
Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3

Degree with
honours
120
120
120
360
Foundation
degree/Diploma of
higher education
120
120
240
Certificate of
higher education
120
120
So, for a typical three-stage honours degree requiring

360 credits, you would study:
Most OU students study part time and how long it takes

depends on how many credits you study in a year.
It takes about 9 hours of study a week to gain
30 credits a year.
You need to study around 18 hours a week to gain
60 credits a year.
It takes 36 hours of study a week to earn 120 credits,
the maximum you can study each year. This is equivalent to
full-time study at a campus-based university.
If youre thinking of studying full time, you need to plan your
studies carefully as it involves studying more than one module
at a time we dont recommend you take on more than two
simultaneously. You also need to bear in mind that, depending
on your chosen qualification, the modules for a given stage
of study may not all be available within your study year or may
not be studied together for academic reasons. If this is the case,
you wont be able to study full time.
The table below gives you a rough idea of how long it will
take to complete a qualification.
Qualification
120 credits at Stage 1, studying OU level 1 modules

worth 30 or 60 credits
Time required to complete

Studying part time Studying full time
60 credits a year 120 credits a year

worth 30 or 60 credits
worth 30 or 60 credits.
Degree with
honours
6 years
3/4 years1
Foundation
degree/Diploma of
higher education
4 years
2 years
Certificate of
higher education
2 years
1 year
For further information about specific qualifications,

click www.openuniversity.co.uk/ug.
Most psychology degrees take a minimum of four years
to complete.
13
Counting previous study

Can previous study count towards
an OU qualification?
You may be able to count credit from previous higher education
towards an OU qualification, reducing the number of modules
you need to complete.
If youd like to apply to transfer credit you need to let us know
as soon as possible, and certainly before you register for your
chosen qualification. Contact us to find out whether your previous
study counts.
To find out more, click
www.openuniversity.co.uk/credit-transfer,
call an adviser on +44 (0)845 300 60 90
or email credit-transfer@open.ac.uk.
If you have a vocational qualification

If you have an NVQ, SVQ, CQFW or QCF vocational qualification
at Level 4 or above, you may be able to count it towards an OU
qualification (see above).
If you have an NVQ, SVQ, CQFW or QCF vocational qualification
at Levels 1, 2 or 3 you can still study with us but you wont be
able to count it towards an OU qualification.
What if you dont want to

commit to a full qualification?
If youre not yet ready to commit to registering for a qualification,
you can still study with us. Most of our modules are available
on a standalone basis, and for each module you successfully
complete, youll earn credits that you could count towards an
OU qualification.
To find out more click
www.openuniversity.co.uk/modules
or request a copy of our Undergraduate Modules
Prospectus (see page 45).
14
Getting started with an Access module.

Increase your confidence, improve your skills, and prepare yourself for further study.
The OU offers a range of Access modules that have been
specially designed to help you find out what its like to study with
the OU, get a taste for the subjects we offer, develop your study
skills, build your confidence, and prepare you for further study
towards a nationally recognised qualification. They are perfect
for new learners with little or no knowledge or experience of
studying and use the same high-quality teaching materials and
study support were famous for.
Is an Access module right for me?

Do you have little or no experience of university-level study?
Do you want to develop or refresh your study skills?
Do you want to increase your confidence about studying?
Are you unsure about studying with The Open University?
If you answered yes to any of the questions above, and you live
in the UK, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man or have a BFPO
address, an Access module may be the ideal starting point
foryou.
What kind of support will I receive?

Youll have your own personal tutor who will provide regular
one-to-one telephone tutorials and support throughout your
study, along with providing written feedback on your work.
Our dedicated Access support team will help with any general
queries about your studies and youll be able to exchange ideas
with other students using our active online forums.
How will I be assessed?

There arent any examinations to sit. Instead, there are four short
written assignments and a number of online quizzes tocomplete.
What can I study?

The following Access modules are linked to one or more of the
qualifications we offer in psychology and counselling.
Arts and languages Access module (Y031)

This fascinating module explores a wide range of subjects,
including art history, English literature, English language studies,
history, modern languages and also touches on the areas of
creative writing and religious studies. The different subject areas
are linked through the theme of popular protest. Your exploration
of language will include the study of a First World War poem,
hip-hop and football chants. In history youll examine the debates
surrounding the Chartist and Suffragette movements, and
examples of graffiti feature in your exploration of art. This module
provides you with lots of opportunities to develop both your study
skills and your subject knowledge in the arts and languages.
People, work and society Access module (Y032)

This module draws from a range of subject areas: children
and young people; health; law; management; psychology; and
social science. The module is divided into four blocks, each
of which deals with a specific theme: Individuals; Families
and relationships; Organisations and communities; and
Society. Within each block, you will explore the theme from the
perspective or point of view of each subject allowing you to
develop both your knowledge and your study skills. As a student
you will be well prepared for further study on a wide variety of
Open University qualifications.
Science, technology and maths

Access module (Y033)
This module introduces a range of subjects, including science;
engineering and design; environment; mathematics; and
computing and IT. There are three blocks. In Life youll explore
biology, ecology and how humans interact with and change the
environment. In Water youll investigate how water has shaped
our planet and our lives. And in Home youll be introduced to
design, engineering and computing. Throughout each block
youll develop your understanding of the key mathematical
ideas and techniques that underpin the study of science
andtechnology.
Undergraduate study
15
When can I start?
How can I pay?
Access modules start in October and February each year.
There are a range of ways you can pay, and you may even be
able to study for free.
How much time will I need to study?
How can I study for free?
These modules are studied over a period of 30 weeks and during

that time you should expect to spend approximately nine hours
per week on your studies.
If you study an Access module as an additional preparatory

stage towards an OU qualification1 you could be entitled to study
your module for free.
You dont need to attend face-to-face tutorials and can fit your
studies around your work and family life. You fix your telephone
tutorials at times that are mutually convenient to you and
your tutor.
In order to qualify for a free place you must:
What do I need to begin my studies?

Youll receive a complete set of study materials in the post.
There will be study books and other printed material, as well
as a DVD. All of these materials are included in the fee.
You will require access to equipment that plays DVDs, a phone
and the use of a computer with internet access. You dont need
to rush out and buy a computer as you could use one at a library
or drop-in centre.
What will I get at the end?

On successful completion of an Access module youll gain an
OU Access Module Certificate. Although an Access module
does not earn credits towards our qualifications, you will be well
prepared to continue your studies with us.
Youll gain valuable knowledge and skills you can apply straight
away, at the same time as developing your confidence and giving
your CV a real boost.
How much will it cost?

The arrangements for the funding of higher education are
different across the four nations of the UK. The fees and funding
available to you are based on where you are ordinarily resident:
be resident in the UK (or have a BFPO address outside theUK)

have a household income (personal income if you live
in Scotland) of less than 25,000 (or be in receipt of
qualifyingbenefits)
have no previous experience of study with The Open University
have not completed a higher education qualification at
NQF level 4/SCQF level 7 or above.
If you are ordinarily resident in Scotland you do not need to

be studying towards a qualification in order to qualify for a
free place.
Can I pay by student loan?

If you dont meet the criteria set out above, and you live
in England or Wales, you may be able to cover the cost
of your studies with a Tuition Fee Loan (see page 40 for
furtherinformation).
What if I want to pay by instalments?

You can spread the cost of your studies and pay as you go. Find
out more about an account with Open University Student Budget
Accounts Ltd (OUSBA) and the option of paying for your study
in instalments as you go at www.open.ac.uk/ousba-advert. You
must be at least 18 years of age and credit is subject to your
financial circumstances and status.
Are there any other ways to pay?

You can pay upfront and in full by debit/credit card or by
banktransfer.
If you live in England the fee is 660.

If you live in Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales the fee is225.
If you live in the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man

You wont be eligible to apply for a Tuition Fee Loan or for
a free place if you live in the Channel Islands or the Isle of
Man. You can, however, pay for your module by instalments
with an Open University Student Budget Account, upfront
with a debit/credit card, or by bank transfer.
Your next step.

Click www.openuniversity.co.uk/ug-access
Call our Student Registration & Enquiry
Service on +44 (0)1908 659253
Request a copy of our Access Module
Certificates brochure see page 45
16
Undergraduate study
Undergraduate qualifications in a named subject

Registration for the 2014/2015 academic year opens for all
undergraduate qualifications on 24 April 2014. Qualification
start dates are based on the start dates of the first applicable
module(s) you can study as part of your qualification.
Degrees (with
BPS accreditation)
The qualification descriptions in this prospectus list the modules

that are currently available for study. However, as we review our
curriculum on a regular basis, the exact selection may change
over time.
Key
BSc (Hons) Psychology (Q07)

Credits: 360
Compulsory module
Optional module
Start:
Oct 2014 (registration closes 11 Sep 2014)

Feb 2015 (registration closes 08 Jan 2015)
Psychology pervades just about every aspect of our personal and

professional lives. The frequent query, What do you have in mind?
quite literally captures much of what psychology the science of
human behaviour is all about. Studying our BSc (Hons)
Psychology degree gives you a window into the workings of the
mind why we do the things we do and how we interact with
others. On this fascinating journey youll gain knowledge and
understanding of the different areas of psychology; develop
valuable analytical and communication skills; and enhance your
ability to work both independently and collaboratively, all of which
will put you very much in the frame when it comes to employment
opportunities. Youll also explore how psychologists use evidence
derived from research to contribute to debates on matters such as
ageing, crime, education, employment, forensic science, mental
health, relationships and much more.
Career relevance and employability

This degree builds an impressive breadth of knowledge and
skills applicable to a wide range of careers in advertising,
marketing, careers counselling, education, health, human
resources, management, police and social services.
Youll also develop valuable transferable skills including
communication, IT, numeracy and team-working skills;
independent and critical thinking; analysing and evaluating
information including qualitative and quantitative data; designing
and carrying out research projects and presenting their findings;
problem-solving and reasoning; application of learning to real
world problems; and independent learning.
This degree is designed to deliver the requirements for the
Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the British
Psychological Society (BPS). To be eligible for GBC you must
achieve a 2.2 or higher.
17
Undergraduate study
What you will study

Stage 1 120 credits
Qualification structure
Study order as listed. Modules marked * can be taken in any order.
In Stage 1, youll be introduced to some of the big topics in

psychology and the academic skills for successful study.
Stage 1 module summary
Youll start with one of two options. Introducing the social

sciences (DD102) sets a context for psychology within social
sciences, covering psychology, criminology, sociology and other
related areas. Alternatively, Introduction to childhood studies and
child psychology (E102) provides a broad general knowledge of
interdisciplinary childhood studies, and an understanding of the
fundamentals of child psychology.
Optional module 60 credits
Finally, Investigating psychology 1 (DE100) explores the different

and fascinating ways that psychologists investigate how we think
and behave, and considers how academic research can be
applied in real-life settings.
Stage 2 120 credits

Stage 2 begins with a choice of modules, enabling you
to explore the areas of psychology that most interest you.
Currently these are Living psychology: from the everyday to the
extraordinary (DD210) (planned for October 2015); Psychology
of childhood and youth (E219) (planned for October 2015);
Counselling: exploring fear and sadness (D240) and Sport
and exercise psychology: a case study approach (E233).
Youll complete Stage 2 with Investigating psychology 2 (DE200)
(planned for October 2015), which builds on your core Stage 1
study. Youll cover all the areas of psychology specified by the
British Psychological Society, building your understanding of how
psychologists explain the way we think, feel and behave.
Stage 3 120 credits

Stage 3 begins with a choice of modules, Issues in research
with children and young people (EK313), or Exploring
psychological aspects of athletic development (E313).
From 2016 there will be a social psychology option, this will be
followed by an additional option in counselling and forensic
psychology in 2017.
Finally, youll complete your degree with Investigating
psychology3 (DE300) (planned for October 2016). The first
part of this advanced module builds directly on Investigating
psychology 2 (DE200), exploring the relationship between the
questions we ask in psychology and the methods we choose to
seek the answers. The second half is an independent research
project which will develop further your skills of critical thinking,
communication and understanding practice.
Select one from:
Credits Page
Introducing the social sciences (DD102)
60
36
Introduction to childhood studies and

child psychology (E102)
60
36
Compulsory module 60 credits

Investigating psychology 1 (DE100)
Credits Page
C
60
36

Optional module(s) 60 credits
Select one or two from:
Credits Page
Counselling: exploring fear

and sadness (D240)*
30
37
Living psychology: from everyday

to the extraordinary (DD210)
(planned for October 2015)
60
37
Psychology of childhood and youth (E219)

60
Sport and exercise psychology: a case

study approach (E233)*
30
38

Credits Page
C
60
37

Select one from:
Credits Page
Exploring psychological aspects of

athletic development (E313)
60
39
Issues in research with children and

young people (EK313)
60
39
A new module in social psychology

60
A new module in counselling

and forensic psychology
60

Module availability is subject to change.
Credits Page
C
60
18
Undergraduate study
NEW BSc (Hons) Forensic

Psychology (Q82)
Credits: 360
Start:

What makes people do harm to others? What is a psychopath?

How do you conduct an intervention with someone convicted
of a violent crime, or help someone who has been the victim of
crime? This degree explores these questions and many others
to do with psychology, crime and justice. Youll also explore
the field of psychology more broadly, gaining a window into
the workings of the mind and insights into why people behave
the way they do. Youll examine how forensic psychologists
use evidence derived from research to contribute to debates
on crime, policing, criminal justice and rehabilitation; and how
psychology is critical to understanding education, employment,
mental health, and relationships. On this fascinating journey
youll gain a practical understanding of psychology and
advanced analytical and communication skills; and enhance
your ability to work both independently and collaboratively, all of
which will prove invaluable to your career development.

This degree is relevant to a broad range of careers in the
criminal justice system, such as the prison and probation
services, and organisations concerned with the care and
resettlement of offenders, victim support, crime prevention and
social justice. Youll gain an impressive breadth of knowledge
and skills that are also much sought after in advertising,
marketing, career counselling, education, the health professions,
human resources, management, police and social services.
Youll also develop many valuable transferable skills such as
communication, numeracy, effective team-working, independent
and critical thinking, information and data analysis, research and
presentation, problem-solving and reasoning.
We are presently seeking BPS accreditation for this degree,
which is designed to deliver the requirements for the Graduate
Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) of the British
Please note: completion of this degree does not qualify you to
practise as a forensic psychologist.
What you will study

Stage 1 120 credits
Youll begin with two broad introductory modules which provide a
firm foundation for more specialised study in forensic psychology,
and develop essential study skills.
First, Introducing the social sciences (DD102) provides a
broad, fascinating overview of social science disciplines,
including psychology, social policy, criminology, geography and
environment, politics and international studies, economics
and sociology.
Then in Investigating psychology 1 (DE100), youll explore how
psychologists study our thinking and behaviour and how
academic research can be applied in real-life settings.
Stage 2 120 credits

In Stage 2 youll study two new modules planned for
October 2015.
Living psychology: from the everyday to the extraordinary (DD210)
covers a broad range of psychological theories and research that
relate to real-world issues. These include: love, sexuality, artificial
intelligence, superstition, psychic phenomena, conspiracy
theories and psychopathy.
Investigating psychology 2 (DE200) expands on the core areas
of psychology introduced in the Stage 1 module covering
cognition; developmental psychology; psychobiology; social
psychology; research methods; and practical work.
Stage 3 120 credits

You will start your Stage 3 study with a new module in
counselling and forensic psychology, planned for October 2017,
which develops skills and knowledge in both these professional
areas, while allowing for a degree of specialisation in forensic
psychology. The module takes an applied approach and tackles
issues such as counselling vulnerable clients and working
withoffenders.
Your final module will be Investigating psychology 3 (DE300),
planned for October 2016, which provides a more in-depth
overview of the core areas of psychology introduced and
developed at Stages 1 and 2, exploring the relationship between
the questions we ask in psychology and the methods we choose
to seek the answers. Youll also carry out an independent research
project under the supervision of a tutor, extending your skills of
critical thinking, communication and understanding practice.
19
Study order as listed.

Compulsory modules 120 credits
Credits Page
60
36
60
36

Credits Page
Living psychology: from the everyday to

the extraordinary (DD210)
60
37

60
37

Credits Page
A new module in counselling and

forensic psychology
60

60
20
Undergraduate study
BSc (Hons) Social

Psychology (Q83)
Credits: 360
Start:

Why do we cooperate with one another? Are leaders born or

made? Why is one person receptive to a political speech or an
advert and another immune? How do we intervene in situations
like rioting and looting, when public opinion is very strong?
This degree investigates such fascinating questions, developing
your understanding of contemporary social psychology.
Youll also explore psychology more generally, gaining a window
into the workings of the brain and the mind, and insights
into why people behave as they do. Youll explore how social
psychologists use evidence from research to contribute to
debates on attitude change, public policy, policing, and social
justice; and how psychology helps us understand workplace
behaviour, communication biases, education, employment,
mental health and relationships.

This degree is relevant to the broad range of careers associated
with general psychology, including career counselling,
education, the health professions, human resources, public
policy, personnel and management, police and social services,
advertising and marketing. Specialising in social psychology
opens up additional employment sectors including social justice,
public policy, media and communications.
Youll also develop many transferable and work-related skills
that are highly valued by employers, such as communication,
numeracy, team-working, independent and critical thinking,
information and data analysis, research and presentation,
problem-solving and reasoning.
Psychological Society (BPS).
What you will study

Stage 1 120 credits
Youll begin with two broad introductory modules which provide
a firm foundation for more specialised study in social psychology,
and develop essential study skills.
and sociology.
Stage 2 120 credits

In Stage 2 you will study two new modules planned for
October 2015.
Living psychology: from the everyday to the extraordinary (DD210)
covers a broad range of psychological theories and research that
relate to real-world issues. These include: love, sexuality, artificial
Investigating psychology 2 (DE200) expands on the core areas
of psychology introduced in the Stage 1 module covering
cognition; developmental psychology; psychobiology;
social psychology; research methods; and practical work.
This includes a range of social psychological topics, including
prejudice, behaviour in groups, helping and altruism, attitudes
and relationships.
Stage 3 120 credits

Youll begin with a new module in social psychology (planned for
October 2016), which builds on study at Stages 1 and 2 to focus
on practical applications of contemporary social psychology, such
as intergroup biases in behaviour, crowd psychology, attitude
change, persuasive communication, identity, prejudice reduction,
leadership and obedience.
planned for October 2016, which provides an in-depth exploration
of the relationship between the questions we ask in psychology
and the methods we choose to seek the answers. Youll also carry
out an independent research project under the supervision of a
tutor, extending your skills of critical thinking, communication and
understanding practice.
21

Credits Page
60
36
60
36

Credits Page
Living psychology: from the everyday to

the extraordinary (DD210)
60
37

60
37

Credits Page
A new module in social psychology

60

60
22
Undergraduate study
BSc (Hons) Psychology with

Counselling (Q84)
Credits: 360
Start:


is increasingly recognised. From everyday worries to serious
mental health issues like chronic anxiety and depression,
counselling and psychological therapy can help us cope.
The BSc (Hons) Psychology with Counselling explores theoretical
and practical perspectives in these two closely aligned subject
areas, focusing in particular on how counselling works and how
it can help people change. Youll also take a broad look at the
field of psychology, gaining insights into the workings of the
mind and why people behave the way they do. Youll consider
how counsellors and psychologists use research evidence to
contribute to debates on different counselling approaches,
mental health conditions, diagnosis and treatment options,
and how psychology is critical to understanding mental health,
relationships, education and employment.

This degree is relevant to a broad range of careers in public,
private and voluntary sector organisations and people skills
are a great asset in the workplace, whether youre working
with individuals or in teams. Youll gain a theoretical basis in
counselling that, with additional training, will help you become a
professional counsellor; and youll have an impressive breadth
of knowledge and skills that are highly attractive to employers,
including advanced analytical and communication skills, and
the ability to learn to work independently and collaboratively.
Please note: completion of this degree does not qualify you to
practise as a counselling psychologist.
What you will study

Stage 1 120 credits
Youll begin with two broad introductory modules which provide
a firm foundation for more specialised study in psychology and
counselling, and develop essential study skills.
and sociology.
Stage 2 120 credits

In Stage 2 you will study three modules.
Counselling: exploring fear and sadness (D240) will deepen your
theoretical understanding of counselling. Youll explore how fear
and sadness have been understood and treated historically, and
examine current counselling approaches and therapies.
The science of the mind: investigating mental health (SDK228)
looks at mental health conditions such as depression and
dementia, and challenges the medical model of mental health
with its reliance on drug treatment contrasting it with ideas from
the field of health psychology.
Finally, Investigating psychology 2 (DE200) (planned for October
2015) expands on the core areas of psychology introduced
in the Stage 1 module: cognition; developmental psychology;
psychobiology; social psychology; research methods; and
practical work.
Stage 3 120 credits

You will start your Stage 3 study with a new module in
counselling and forensic psychology, planned for October 2017,
which develops skills and knowledge in both these professional
areas, while allowing for a degree of specialisation in counselling
psychology. The module takes an applied approach and tackles
issues such as counselling vulnerable clients and working
withoffenders.
planned for October 2016, which provides a more in-depth
overview of the core areas of psychology introduced and
developed at Stages 1 and 2, exploring the relationship between
the questions we ask in psychology and the methods we choose
to seek the answers. Youll also carry out an independent research
project under the supervision of a tutor, extending your skills of
critical thinking, communication and understanding practice.
23

Credits Page
60
36
60
36

Credits Page
Counselling: exploring fear and

sadness (D240)*
30
37
The science of the mind: investigating

mental health (SDK228)*
30
38

60
37

Credits Page

forensic psychology
60

60
24
Undergraduate study
Other degrees that

includepsychology
BA (Hons) Combined Social
Sciences (Psychology) (Q69)
Credits: 360
Start:

What causes riots? Is commercialisation eroding childhood?

Does poverty lead to crime? The social sciences explore
such questions and help inform others from police officers
to civil servants to business executives who want to base
their decisions on the best evidence. This degree is designed
to be very flexible, enabling you to combine specialist study
in psychology with other social science subjects including
sociology, social policy, criminology, geography, politics and
economics. Youll be able to draw together ideas about the
major issues that affect individuals and society, and youll
acquire a wide range of valuable transferable skills opening
up employment opportunities in private, public and voluntary
sector organisations.

Social science graduates are in demand for the diversity of
their skills and breadth of mind. The range of subjects and
perspectives covered by this degree will demonstrate your
adaptability and versatility to employers, wholl also value
your ability to evaluate data and evidence, and to integrate
rather than compartmentalise knowledge. Youll gain valuable
work-related skills, including using IT to research and present
information; critical evaluation; concise writing; reasoned
argument; independent thinking; self-motivation; and the ability
to reflect on your own work. Graduates may find employment in
government and public administration; health and social care;
education; charities; PR, media and market research; planning
and environmental management; police, law and criminal justice;
business and commerce.
What you will study

Stage 1 120 credits
Youll start with Introducing the social sciences (DD102),
a broad, fascinating overview of psychology, social policy
and criminology, geography and environment, politics and
international studies, economics and sociology.
For the second half of Stage 1 we recommend that you study
Investigating psychology 1 (DE100) which introduces key issues
in psychology, and some of the important theories and methods
that help psychologists understand how individuals and
society interact.
Alternatively, you could continue your exploration of the issues
facing contemporary society, and study areas of social science
that interest you in greater depth in Investigating the social
world (DD103) (planned for October 2015).
At the end of Stage 1, youll have a good grasp of the type
of issues studied by social scientists, and a range of skills
including evaluating evidence, making arguments, analysing
different types of data, thinking critically and writing for
different audiences.
Stage 2 120 credits

Stage 2 begins with The uses of social science (DD206), which
explores how social science uses evidence to describe the
social world for example, how personal troubles like obesity or
smoking become a basis for public concern and how research
can shed light on such debates.
Then Exploring psychology (DSE212) (or Living psychology: from
the everyday to the extraordinary (DD210) from October 2015)
considers issues like perception, memory, identity, language,
and gender from biological, cognitive and social perspectives.
Youll learn about major figures and schools of thought that have
influenced psychology over the past century and engage in
project work.
Stage 3 120 credits

At Stage 3, you have a choice of psychology modules.
Social psychology: critical perspectives on self and others (DD307)
explores topics such as personality, emotion, prejudice, conflict,
and group processes; and and deepens your understanding of
what it is to be a person in a social context. Alternatively, Cognitive
psychology (DD303) asks how we perceive, think, learn, and
remember; and examines the theories, evidence, arguments
and methods of cognitive psychology, neuropsychology
and neuroimaging.
You can study both these modules, or complete your degree
with a module in criminology, international relations, politics,
sociology, or social policy.
25
Undergraduate study

Select one from:

Credits Page
C
60
36

Select one from:
Credits Page
Credits Page
Social psychology: critical perspectives

on self and others (DD307)
60
39
Cognitive psychology (DD303)
60
39

Study a second module from the group
above or select one from:
Credits Page
Crime and justice (DD301)
60
39
60
36
60
Investigating the social world (DD103)

Earth in crisis: environmental policy in an

international context (DU311)
60
36
International relations: continuity and

change in global politics (DD313)
60
Living political ideas (DD306)
60
Making social worlds (DD308)
60
Personal lives and social policy (DD305)
60

Credits Page
The uses of social science (DD206)
60
38
Exploring psychology (DSE212)

(or from October 2015
Living psychology: from the everyday
to the extraordinary (DD210))
60
37
Enter module code into search box at

www.openuniversity.co.uk/search for module description.
26
Undergraduate study
BSc (Hons) Computing & IT

and Applied Psychology (Q67)
Credits: 360
Start:

Computing and IT skills are hugely valued in the modern

workplace; studied together with a second complementary
subject they can open up careers in a wide range of sectors,
from government to gaming. This flexible joint honours degree
offers you a double opportunity. You can focus your studies on an
area of computing & IT and combine it with applied psychology
dividing your time equally between subjects. Organisations are
critically dependent on computing technologies, and people who
can apply specialist IT knowledge within the context of another
discipline are in particular demand. This degree will help you
establish or develop a varied and fulfilling career, and position
yourself to meet the needs of todays employers.

Organisations increasingly value IT teams with wider business
skills in addition to technical ability. This joint honours degree
opens the way for careers in information technology, computing,
communication technology, gaming and related fields and with
a sound grounding in a second subject youll be well placed
for roles in a wide range of sectors from government, health,
education and the Third Sector, to business, finance
and commerce.
Youll gain experience of team working and undertake a
substantial piece of project work on a topic youve selected.
Youll also gain a range of valuable transferable skills in
communication, time management, analysis and problem solving.
Please note: completion of this degree will not make you eligible
for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC)
conferred by the British Psychological Society.
What you will study

Stage 1 120 credits
Computing & IT: Your computing & IT studies will begin with
My digital life (TU100), which gives you hands-on experience of
designing, building and programming computers, and explores
the profound technological, economic, political and ethical
changes brought about by information technology.
Psychology: In Investigating psychology 1 (DE100) youll
explore a range of fascinating psychological studies
demonstrating how psychologists investigate how we think and
behave and how academic research can be applied in
real-life settings.
Stage 2 120 credits

Computing & IT: youll focus on one of five areas:
Computer science: Object-oriented Java programming (M250)
and Algorithms, data structures and computability (M269)
designing small computer programs using Java and Python
programming languages; stating problems so they can be
solved by computer.
Digital technologies: Communication and information
technologies (T215) principles underpinning new
technologies including online communication and
collaboration; storing, manipulating and transmitting data.
Networking: Cisco networking (CCNA) (T216) configuring
a LAN/WAN using Cisco equipment (ideal preparation for
industry-standard CCNA exams); configuring networks.
Software development: Object-oriented Java programming
(M250) and Software development with Java (M256)
designing computer programs; Java programming skills; using
software tools, eg. IDE and UML; designing and implementing
software systems, eg. graphical user interface.
Solutions development: Object-oriented Java programming
(M250) or Designing applications with Visual Basic (MT264),
and Web technologies (TT284) programming skills;
application development processes underpinning the World
Wide Web; plan, design, implement and test
web applications.
Applied psychology: Living psychology: from the everyday to
the extraordinary (DD210) (planned for October 2105) covers a
broad range of psychological theories and research that relate
to real-world issues. These include: love, sexuality, artificial
Stage 3 120 credits

Computing & IT: depending upon your choice of modules at
Stage 2, you can delve deeper into one of a number of topics
that include software engineering, human-computer interactions,
artificial intelligence and ebusiness technology.
In addition, this stage concludes with The computing and
IT project (TM470). Youll research, develop and write up a
project on a topic of your choice presenting your findings in a
substantial portfolio report that you can show to employers.
Applied psychology: a new module in counselling and forensic
psychology, planned for October 2017, develops skills and
knowledge in both these professional areas, while allowing for
a degree of specialisation in one. The module takes an applied
approach and tackles issues such as counselling vulnerable
clients and working with offenders.
27
Undergraduate study
Applied psychology
Study order as listed but note that the psychology modules can be
studied before those in computing & IT.

to the extraordinary (DD210)
Computing & IT

My digital life (TU100)
60
60
37
Computing & IT
Credits Page
C
Credits Page
Select one from:
Credits Page
Developing concurrent distributed

systems (M362)
30
Ebusiness technologies: foundations

and practice (T320)
30
Fundamentals of interaction
design (M364)
30
Keeping ahead in information and

communication technologies (T324)
30
Computing & IT
Software engineering (TM354)
30
Technologies for digital media (T325)
30
Applied psychology
Credits Page
C
60
36
Select one of five options:
Credits Page
1. Computer science
The computing and IT project (TM470)1
Object-oriented Java
programming (M250)
30
Algorithms, data structures and

computability (M269)
30
60

forensic psychology planned for
October 2017.
30
60
Final Stage 3 module.

4. Software development
programming (M250)
30
Software development with Java (M256)
30
programming (M250) or
30
Designing applications with

Visual Basic (MT264)
30
Web technologies (TT284)
30
5. Solutions development
Credits Page
C
60

3. Networking
Cisco networking (CCNA) (T216)
Applied psychology
2. Digital technologies
Communication and information
technologies (T215)
Credits Page
28
Undergraduate study
BSc (Hons) Criminology and

Credits: 360
Start:

Why does crime occur? What makes people do harm to others?

This degree explores a range of fascinating issues to do with
crime, criminal justice and psychology including antisocial
behaviour, surveillance, security, social justice, social welfare and
environmental degradation. Youll gain a thorough understanding
of a range of broader psychological and criminological theories
and topics, such as how the mind works, and the relationship
between social welfare and crime control. As well as grasping
the complex issues behind so many headlines, TV programmes
and political debates, youll learn how to construct and analyse
arguments; think critically about published work across a range
of sources; understand and analyse statistical information; and
apply concepts and ideas to the real world.

This degree is directly relevant to careers within the criminal
justice system, such as the police, prison and probation services,
and organisations concerned with the care and resettlement of
offenders, civil liberties, human rights, social justice, victim support,
crime prevention, community safety and conflict resolution.
Youll also develop a strong set of transferable skills, including
the ability to analyse evidence; present arguments; write clearly;
analyse statistical information; apply learning to real world
problems; conduct independent research; and reflect on your
own work. These are all highly valued in fields such as education,
health, human resources, management, social services,
advertising, and career counselling.
Please note: completion of this degree does not make you
eligible for Chartered Membership of the British Psychological
Society (for eligible qualifications, see our degrees in psychology
and forensic psychology on pages 1623), or qualify you to
practise as a forensic psychologist.
What you will study

Stage 1 120 credits
Youll begin with Introducing the social sciences (DD102) and
you will then go on to study Investigating psychology 1 (DE100).
This provides a firm foundation for more specialised study in
criminology and psychology, and develops essential study skills.
Youll explore how inequalities arise, how people interact with
one another and with the material world, how psychologists
investigate the way we think and behave, why people do harm
to others, why eyewitnesses can have false memories, the
relationship between governing and social order, and how social
disorder occurs. Youll also develop skills in evaluating evidence,
making arguments, analysing data, thinking critically and writing
for different audiences.
Stage 2 120 credits

Stage 2 builds on the skills and knowledge you gained
at Stage1, and takes a more focused look at criminology
andpsychology.
Welfare, crime and society (DD208) examines the relationship
between social welfare and crime control; concepts such as
surveillance, social justice and security; and policy interventions
designed to tackle anti-social behaviour, poverty, discrimination
and hate crime.
Exploring psychology (DSE212) considers how questions to
do with identity, learning, language, and sex and gender have
been researched and how different psychological approaches
cognitive, biological, social can complement or oppose
each other.
Stage 3 120 credits

In Stage 3 youll study two compulsory modules.
Social psychology: critical perspectives on self and
others(DD307) considers contemporary life in the light of
themes such as family relationships or conflict and the self; and
asks how we know what we know about ourselves.
Crime and justice (DD301) investigates how fear of crime has
extended far beyond local concerns, redefining the boundaries
between crime control and civil liberty. Youll explore global
threats from cyber-crime, terrorism and human trafficking.
By the end of your studies, youll be an independent thinker with
the advanced critical and analytical skills needed to evaluate
contemporary debates, analyse qualitative and quantitative data,
and present empirical findings professionally.
29

Credits Page
60
36
60
36

Credits Page
Welfare, crime and society (DD208)
60
38

(or from October 2015
60
37

Credits Page

60
39
60
39

The Diploma of Higher Education in Criminology and
Psychological Studies (W39) is also available. Click
www.openuniversity.co.uk/ug-psyc for further information.
30
Undergraduate study
BA (Hons) Philosophy and

Credits: 360
Start:

Philosophy and psychology seek to answer profound questions

about ourselves, our minds, our behaviour, and our place in the
social and physical universe. What makes us happy? Do humans
display irrational biases? How can I, a mere physical being, have
thoughts and emotions? How does science progress and can
I trust it? By what moral authority does the state rule over me?
Who should get what? Is there a god? By studying this degree
youll learn to: read and understand scientific and historical
texts; construct and analyse arguments; understand and use a
range of research methods; and express your ideas clearly and
logically. These skills are relevant to a broad range of career
opportunities, including media, marketing, financial and social
services, administration and management.
What you will study

Stage 1 120 credits
Youll start with one of two options:
The arts past and present (AA100) an absorbing grounding
in the arts and humanities, including history, philosophy, music,
literature, art history, classical studies, and religious studies.
Youll develop essential study skills while engaging with a wide
range of topics, periods and approaches, and enhancing your
cultural understanding and enjoyment.
Investigating psychology 1 (DE100) an exploration of how
We recommend that you study both these modules together
they provide sound preparation for your specialist modules
at Stages 2 and 3. Alternatively, you could choose from other
options including languages, humanities and design.
Stage 2 120 credits
At Stage 2 youll begin your specialist subjects:
The disciplines of philosophy and psychology are highly

regarded by employers, who prize graduates reasoning ability,
clear thinking and specialist knowledge. Relevant careers
include public administration, local government, the civil service,
art institutions and social services; advertising, journalism,
publishing, creative industries and public relations; education;
legal work; business, banking and retail; human resources;
charities and campaigning.
Exploring philosophy (A222) introduces you to six essential

topics: the self; philosophy of religion; ethics; knowledge and
science; the mind; and political philosophy. Youll examine the
diverging ideas of philosophers past and present, and learn to
tackle the big questions of philosophy for yourself.
Youll sharpen your writing and IT skills, and develop transferable

skills vital to effective decision-making, including evaluating and
presenting data; identifying and using information in constructing
an argument; conceptualising and addressing problems from
different perspectives; and thinking coherently about practical
and abstract matters.
Please note: completion of this degree will not make you eligible
for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC)
conferred by the British Psychological Society.
Exploring psychology (DSE212) covers a broad range of

psychological approaches to areas such as identity, language
and meaning, personality and social world, while exploring
contemporary psychology and its historical roots. Youll learn
how to carry out quantitative and qualitative research projects,
and how to collect, analyse and interpret data.
Stage 3 120 credits

At Stage 3 youll explore your specialist subjects in greater depth
and detail.
Key questions in philosophy (A333) investigates five different
topics in philosophy: truth in fiction, war, reason and action, the
value of life, knowledge and reason. The study materials will
enable you to examine these topics in some depth, while leaving
space for independent study and reflection.
In psychology, youll choose one of two modules. Cognitive
psychology (DD303) focuses on the mental processes involved
in learning, perceiving, and thinking, and topics that challenge
the cognitive approach, such as emotion and consciousness.
Social psychology: critical perspectives on self and others
(DD307) develops your critical understanding of theories and
research in social psychology by investigating social behaviour,
and our own and others experiences.
Undergraduate study

Select one from:
Credits Page
The arts past and present (AA100)*
60
Investigating psychology 1 (DE100)*
60
36

Study a second module from the group above or from a range
which include languages, humanities and design

Credits Page
Exploring philosophy (A222)*
60
37
Exploring psychology (DSE212)*

(or from October 2015 Living
psychology: from the everyday
60
37

Credits Page
C
60
39

Select one from:
Credits Page
Cognitive psychology (DD303)*
60
39

on self and others (DD307)*
60
39
Foundation degree/
Diplomas of higher education
Foundation Degree in
Counselling (X09)
Key questions in philosophy (A333)*
31
This qualification is also available as a Diploma of

Higher Education in Counselling (W09).
Credits: 240
Start: See www.cpcab.co.uk for details
is increasingly recognised. From everyday worries to serious
mental health issues like chronic anxiety and depression,
counsellors and psychotherapists are helping us cope.
This qualification, developed in partnership with the Counselling
and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body (CPCAB), will
prepare you to become a professional counsellor equipping
you with the theoretical understanding and practical skills
required to work in this field. Youll engage in a unique mix of
learning experiences, initially taking some CPCAB courses,
which include practical, work-based learning delivered in
conjunction with local Further Education colleges and other
registered training providers, followed by some knowledgebased modules with the OU. If you already have the required
CPCAB qualifications, you can top these up with the OU modules
needed to achieve this qualification.
Before registering you should ensure that the relevant CPCAB
courses are delivered in your area, and that you are aware
of the CPCAB course entry requirements and fees. See
www.cpcab.co.uk for more details.
For students studying outside England and Wales, this
qualification is available as the Diploma of Higher Education
in Counselling (W09), but is limited to areas where the
CPCAB courses are delivered. Please check with CPCAB
(www.cpcab.co.uk) for the latest availability.

This qualification enables you to practise as a professional
counsellor in a wide range of settings, and work with a diverse
range of people and issues such as mental health problems,
relationship problems, physical illness and trauma. It also
provides the required hours of specified learning which with
appropriate practice, supervision and personal development
will enable you to apply for individual accreditation with the
British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).
You can also use it as a staging post for further professional
development, including topping up to an honours degree.
Youll also acquire transferable skills that are particularly relevant
to roles in health, social care and education.
Continued on page 32.
32
Undergraduate study
What you will study

This is a recommended study route. You can choose the order of
study but note:
Recommended study order as listed. Modules marked * can be
taken in any order.
we recommend that you only take the Level 4 CPCAB diploma

alongside the knowledge-based (OU) modules in Stage 2 if
you are able to study full time
you must have completed the Level 4 CPCAB qualification

before moving on to Level 5.
Compulsory CPCAB course 120 credits
Stage 1 120 credits

Stage 1 provides the basic theory and practice of counselling
through competence-based training and experiential learning in
small groups.
You will study the CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic
Counselling part time over two years. This qualification is
delivered through a network of Further Education Colleges and
other registered training providers. Youll find out more about
different approaches to counselling, and develop your skills
in working ethically, safely and professionally with a diversity
of clients.
Youll also work in a supervised placement as a counselling
trainee to gain the required experience of working with clients;
and undertake the personal therapy (or alternative personal
development) required from counselling trainees.
Stage 2 120 credits

In Stage 2 youll complete your CPCAB studies with either the
Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling or Level 5
Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapeutic Skills and Theory.
Youll also have the opportunity to develop your proficiency in
one particular counselling approach.
For your theoretical learning, youll study Counselling: exploring
fear and sadness (D240) designed to deepen your
understanding by examining how different counselling
approaches work with the common issues of fear and sadness.
Youll engage with key debates about diagnosis, drug treatments
and the importance of sociocultural factors in the treatment of
anxiety and depression; and reflect on your own experiences in
these areas.
Youll complete your theoretical studies with a choice of OU
modules covering psychology and mental health.
CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in

Therapeutic Counselling
Credits Page
C
120

CPCAB course 30 credits
Select one from:
Credits Page
CPCAB Level 5 Diploma in

Psychotherapeutic Counselling
30
CPCAB Level 5 Diploma in Cognitive

Behavioural Therapeutic Skills
andTheory
30
Compulsory OU module 30 credits

Counselling: exploring fear
and sadness (D240)*
Credits Page
C
30
37
Optional OU module(s) 60 credits

Select from:
Credits Page
Challenging ideas in
mental health (K272)*
30
Child development (ED209)*
60
37
Death and dying (K260)*
30
Diverse perspectives on
mentalhealth (K225)*
30
Exploring psychology (DSE212)*
60
37
The science of the mind: investigating

mental health (SDK228)*
30
38

Undergraduate study
Diploma of Higher Education

in Psychology (W45)
Certificate of
Higher Education
Credits: 240
Start:
Certificate of Higher
Education in Psychology (T22)

If youre interested in psychology and would like to develop

skills and knowledge relevant to a wide range of careers, this
diploma could be for you. A valuable qualification in its own
right, you can also use it as a basis for a higher qualification
such as our degree in psychology. Youll learn how psychologists
investigate the human mind and behaviour; how psychological
research addresses real-life issues; and gain knowledge and
understanding of the different areas of psychology.
Youll develop valuable analytical and communication skills and
enhance your ability to work independently and collaboratively,
helping to boost your career. Youll also explore how
psychologists use evidence from research to contribute to
debates on ageing, crime, education, employment, forensic
science, mental health and relationships; and tailor the diploma
to suit your interests, choosing options from childhood studies,
counselling, social sciences, or sport and exercise psychology.
What you will study

For this qualification you will follow the same curriculum as
Stages 1 and 2 of the BSc (Hons) Psychology (Q07),
see page 16.
33
Credits: 120
Start:

If youre interested in psychology and would like to learn

more, or find out if its the right subject for you, this certificate
could be just the right starting point. You can use it as a
basis for a diploma or degree in psychology, but its also a
valuable qualification in its own right. Youll learn about how
psychologists investigate the human mind and behaviour, and
how psychological research addresses real-life issues.
Youll gain knowledge and understanding of the different areas
of psychology; develop valuable analytical and communication
skills; and enhance your ability to work both independently
and collaboratively all of which will boost your career.
Youll also explore how psychologists use evidence from
research to contribute to debates on ageing, crime, education,
employment, forensic science, mental health, relationships and
much more. You can tailor the certificate to suit your interests,
focusing on childhood studies or social sciences.
What you will study

For this qualification you will follow the same curriculum as
Stage 1 of the BSc (Hons) Psychology (Q07), see page 16.
You may also be interested in

BSc (Hons) Sport, Fitness and Coaching (Q76)
If you are an aspiring or practising leader of sport or fitness
activities, this degree will develop your understanding of
sports science, training, coaching and leadership principles,
as well as increasing your current effectiveness and skills in
these areas.
To find out more, click www.openuniversity.co.uk/ug.
Your next step.

Click www.openuniversity.co.uk/ug-psyc
Service on +44 (0)845 300 60 90
34
Undergraduate study
Open qualifications
With an Open qualification a certificate of higher education
(CertHE), diploma of higher education (DipHE) or degree
you choose what you want to study.
Its one of the most flexible programmes of study in the UK,
letting you build a qualification thats unique for you.
You can:
tailor a qualification around your interests and career needs
Get credit for previous study

Any previous higher-education study youve successfully
completed elsewhere could count towards your Open
qualification. Through credit transfer you could reduce the
number of modules youll need to take, lessen the time needed
to complete your qualification and make a saving in terms of
the cost.
To find out more about career opportunities
with an Open qualification, click
www.openuniversity.co.uk/careers-subjects.
get a qualification that focuses on psychology, but with the

freedom to mix in modules from other areas
use successfully completed credit from previous universitylevel studies elsewhere
easily change direction if you started out studying a particular
subject but your interests have changed.
Highly regarded by employers for their breadth and valued by
students for their flexibility, Open qualifications equip you with
a wide range of expertise, skills and capabilities that are much
sought after in todays highly competitive job market.
Where to start
If you are interested in psychology we recommend that you
start your studies with Introducing the social sciences (DD102)
followed by Investigating psychology 1 (DE100).
Alternatively, you could choose 60 credits from other options
which include languages, humanities and design.
This will give you a firm foundation for future studies as well as
60 credits to count towards your qualification. For a full list of our
other key introductory OU level 1 modules see the Open CertHE
at www.openuniversity.co.uk/ug-open.
What Open qualifications

do we offer?
Open CertHE (T09) to gain a certificate of higher education
you will need to complete 120 credits of OU level 1 study
equivalent to Stage 1 of our Open degree (see table opposite).
Open DipHE (W34) to gain a diploma of higher education
you will need to complete 240 credits (120 at OU level 1 and
120 at OU level 2) equivalent to Stages 1 and 2 of our Open
degree (see table opposite).
Open degree (QD) to gain a degree with honours you will
need to study a total of 360 credits (120 credits at OU level 1,
120 credits at OU level 2 and 120 credits at OU level 3).
We also offer you the option of graduating with an Open degree
without honours. It can take less time to study because you only
need 300 credits. However, you are likely to need a degree with
honours to pursue further study and for many career paths.
35
The Open degree with honours
study route
Stage 1 120 credits
Start with 60 credits from a wide and varied choice
of key introductory modules (worth 30 or 60 credits)
specially selected to develop your subject knowledge
and study skills in preparation for OU level 2 study
see www.openuniversity.co.uk/ug-open for details.
Plus
60 credits of free choice from any OU level 1 modules.
Stage 2 120 credits

120 credits of free choice from any OU level 2 modules.
Stage 2 offers an opportunity to focus on your subject(s) of
interest and to explore further some of the topics you will
have encountered at Stage 1. At the end of Stage 2 you will
have enhanced your critical thinking and analytical skills.
Stage 3 120 credits

120 credits of free choice from any OU level 3 modules
although we recommend that you choose those that build on
your OU level 2 study.
Stage 3 is focused on the study of specialist topics and
issues. During this stage you will develop significantly as
an independent learner and acquire high-level thinking
skills in preparation for graduate-level employment or
postgraduate study.
BA (Hons) or BSc (Hons) Open (QD)
Your next step.

Click www.openuniversity.co.uk/ug-open
Service on +44 (0)845 300 60 90
36
Undergraduate study
Undergraduate
modules
For academic year 2014/2015, registration opens for all
undergraduate qualifications on 24 April 2014. After youve
registered on your qualification you will enrol on the
module(s) you intend to study in your first year.
The modules listed below are those that are currently available
for study. However, as we review our curriculum on a regular
basis, the exact selection may change over time.
Assessment key
EMA
End-of-module assessment
iCMA
Interactive computer-marked assignment
TMA
Tutor-marked assignment
Stage 1
NEW Introduction to childhood studies

and child psychology (E102)
Credits:
60 at OU level 1
Length: 9 months
Assessment:
4 TMAs, 1 EMA
Start:
04 Oct 2014 enrol by 18 Sep 2014
What influences childrens development? How is childhood

changing? How important are society and culture in
understanding this change? This key introductory module offers
a fascinating insight into the lives of children and young people.
It brings together approaches from psychology, anthropology
and sociology, to provide a complete account of some of the
complex influences that shape childrens experiences. You will
investigate topics central to the lives of children and young
people, from birth to 18 years, and explore their emotional,
physical, intellectual, social and cultural development. Youll be
introduced to these thought-provoking topics through audio,
video and interactive online materials.
NEW Investigating psychology 1 (DE100)
NEW Introducing the social sciences (DD102)

Credits:
60 at OU level 1
Length: 8 months
Assessment:
5 TMAs, 1 iCMA, 1 EMA
Start:

07 Feb 2015 enrol by 08 Jan 2015
This key introductory module provides an ideal introduction to

the social sciences psychology, social policy and criminology,
geography and environment, politics and international studies,
economics and sociology. Youll explore a wide range of
topics which shape the nature of contemporary UK society;
from questions of identity, inequalities and differences to
consumerism and environment, and issues of social order,
disorder and governance. Using a blend of text, audio, video
and online materials, youll be equipped with a range of skills for
independent study and for your personal and working life.
Credits:
60 at OU level 1
Length: 8 months
Assessment:
Start:

07 Feb 2015 enrol by 08 Jan 2015
Drawing on a wide range of studies and some classic pieces

of psychological research, this key introductory module
provides an accessible and engaging introduction to the study
of psychology. You will explore the different ways in which
psychologists investigate the human mind and behaviour, and
find out how psychological research addresses real-life issues
with an opportunity to conduct a psychological study of your
own. You will be provided with two textbooks and access to a
comprehensive website containing an online study guide,
audio-visual material and interactive activities which are
designed to help you develop your knowledge andskills.
NEW Investigating the social world (DD103)

Credits:
60 at OU level 1
Length: 8 months
Assessment:
Start:
Oct 2015
Drawing on the disciplines of criminology, economics,

environment, geography, international studies, politics, social
policy and sociology, youll examine how the social world is
investigated through the lens of the social sciences. In this
introductory OU level 1 module, youll learn the methods and
tools of the social sciences, further developing your evaluative
and analytical skills. Through its investigative approach this
module will prepare you for specialisation at OU level 2, with a
range of skills for further independent study, as well as for your
personal and working life.
37
Stage 2
Child development (ED209)

Credits:
60 at OU level 2
This module shows how psychological enquiry can help us

to improve our understanding of the development of children
and young people. It is organised in four parts: Psychological
development and early childhood introduces childrens early
development from a psychological perspective; Childrens
personal and social development follows development in a
social context; and Cognitive and language development in
children explores the development of cognitive and linguistic
understanding and the developing child as an active agent.
Finally, Developmental psychology in action presents areas in
which developmental psychology plays a part in education,
remediation, health psychology and the legal system with
children of all ages.
This module will be available for the last time in October 2014
a replacement is planned for October 2015.
Counselling: exploring fear and sadness (D240)

Credits:
30 at OU level 2
Fear and sadness are the most common problems that people
seek counselling for. This module introduces you to the ways in
which they have been understood: as mental health problems;
by different forms of individual therapy; and by approaches that
focus on the family, the social group, or society. While the module
is primarily academic, youll develop awareness of counselling
skills, processes and techniques. The main sections of the
module cover: historical developments in understanding fear and
sadness; key individual counselling approaches; approaches
that consider relationships and cultural aspects of human
suffering; and the practice and evaluation of counselling.
Exploring philosophy (A222)

Credits:
60 at OU level 2
This introduction to philosophy considers fundamental questions

from six core areas: the self; philosophy of religion; ethics;
knowledge and science; the mind; and political philosophy.
What makes me Me? Does God exist? Why should I act
morally? Can I trust science? How can I, a physical being, have
thoughts and emotions? Should I obey laws I disagree with?
Philosophers both past and present have offered radically
diverging answers to these and the other questions asked in this
module. Guided engagement with this philosophical tradition
will provide the platform for you to tackle the big questions of
philosophy for yourself.
Credits:
60 at OU level 2
How humans think, develop and experience the world around

us has been fascinating psychologists for over 100 years.
Using a historical and biographical framework, this module
introduces you to a wide range of psychological approaches,
including biological, social and cognitive psychologies. It looks
at areas such as identity, learning, memory and language.
But you wont just learn about psychological theories, youll also
learn how to do different types of psychological research too.
Youll undertake practical work using quantitative and qualitative
research methods and learn to analyse data using statistical
software. All in all, Exploring psychology will give you a thorough
overview of psychology, relevant to your daily life.
This module will be available for the last time in February 2015.
It will be replaced by a new module, Living psychology: from the
everyday to the extraordinary (DD210), from October 2015.
NEW Investigating psychology 2 (DE200)

Credits:
60 at OU level 2
This module takes an integrative approach, focusing on the

everyday questions that psychology can help us to answer.
Whydo we help one another? Do you see what I see? Howdo
we know whats right? Investigating how we understand other
and the world around us, the module draws on biological,
cognitive, developmental and social research in psychology to
help you answer questions such as these. You will also learn how
to design and conduct your own research, covering a number
of different methods for gathering and analysing evidence on
psychological processes.
NEW Living psychology: from the everyday to the

extraordinary (DD210)
Credits:
60 at OU level 2
Using real-world situations, this module introduces you to

psychological issues, theories, approaches and methods
as they arise from, and can be applied to, the everyday and
not-so-everyday lives of people. The real-world situations you
will explore vary from the truly everyday (e.g. interacting with
the world around us), through to less everyday examples
(e.g. developments in artificial intelligence), and on to more
extraordinary aspects of life (e.g. the consequences of extreme
life experiences). In exploring these issues, youll cover a broad
range of psychological concepts, finding out how psychological
knowledge is both created and used in the real world.
38
Undergraduate study
Sport and exercise psychology:

a case study approach (E233)
Credits:
Credits:
60 at OU level 2
30 at OU level 2
In this module you will explore common psychological issues

in sport and exercise, and learn to recognise situations
where psychological theory can be applied in real-life cases.
Research summaries are used alongside case studies to help
you engage with recent literature. Youll cover some of the key
topics in sport and exercise psychology such as: anxiety; selfconfidence; concentration; group dynamics; the psychology
of injury; exercise dependence; and mental skills training used
by psychologists. This module is suitable if you have a general
interest in sport and exercise psychology, or are working in the
field in roles such as exercise instruction or sports coaching.
The science of the mind:

investigatingmentalhealth (SDK228)
Credits:
The uses of social science (DD206)
30 at OU level 2
To what extent can we understand mental wellbeing and treat

mental health conditions such as depression and dementia by
focusing on the brain and its functioning? This module presents
and challenges the medical model of mental health with its
reliance on drug treatment, contrasting it with ideas in the field
of health psychology. You will learn from case reports of those
who have a mental health condition and those who care for
them, as well as from relevant research studies. The module
has an emphasis on understanding different approaches within
psychology, as well as the nature of evidence for and against
these approaches.
Making use of a blend of learning technologies, this

interdisciplinary module investigates how social science is
used to make sense of everyday dilemmas such as sustaining
relationships, making a living, finding a place to live, being
part of a community, or making ones voice heard. The module
explores how social scientists use evidence and data, theories
and explanations, and norms and values to make sense of
social life. By studying this module you will develop the practical
skills and intellectual resources required to analyse the ways in
which social science can be used both to understand and to
shape our social lives.
Welfare, crime and society (DD208)

Credits:
60 at OU level 2
This module examines the relationships between the worlds

of social welfare and crime control. It focuses on policy
interventions and responses in the UK and around the world to
issues such as anti-social behaviour, poverty, discrimination, hate
crimes, child labour, health and disease, families, slums, ghettos
and gated communities. Using multimedia teaching materials,
the module is organised by four conceptual themes: surveillance,
social justice, security and community. It will equip you with the
skills you need to select and evaluate evidence in relation to
social science arguments and social policy.
39
Stage 3
Cognitive psychology (DD303)
Credits:
Depending on where you live, there may be an additional fee for

accommodation and meals for the residential-school element of
this module.
This module is available for the last time in February 2015.

60 at OU level 3
Crime, disorder, and justice are increasingly pressing concerns

across the world. Fear of crime and proliferating global threats
contribute to an increasing sense of insecurity. Local concerns
like street crime are now accompanied by global concerns
about human trafficking, cyber-crime, terrorism and human rights
violations to name but a few. These threats have implications
for justice, as the boundaries between crime control and civil
liberties are being increasingly redrawn. Youll explore crime and
justice in global and local contexts, and the way that crime and
justice are continually redefined by global economic, social and
political change.
Exploring psychological aspects of

athletic development (E313)
Credits:
Credits:
60 at OU level 3
60 at OU level 3
How does memory work? How do we think? These are just

some of the questions related to everyday experience this
module addresses. Beginning with core topics perception
and attention; categorisation and language; and memory,
thinking and reasoning youll then explore wider issues, such
as emotion and consciousness, topics that have presented a
challenge to the cognitive approach. Throughout, youll be asked
to examine theories, evidence and arguments as well as the
methods of cognitive psychology, including neuropsychology
and neuroimaging. This module includes a compulsory
residential school (or an online alternative).
Credits:
Issues in research with children

and young people (EK313)
60 at OU level 3
You will explore some of the most significant psychological

factors influencing the development of participants in sport.
Through critical analysis of relevant research and psychological
theory, youll consider the psycho-developmental influences
of factors, such as families, coach-athlete interactions and
transitional stages, on an individuals pathway in sport.
This module is suitable for you if you have an interest in sport
and exercise psychology, or are working in a coaching role.
While this module is focused predominantly on sports
performance, it also considers some aspects of
exercise participation.
Are you interested in researching the experiences of children

and young people and learning more about their worlds?
This module examines the research process through studies
with young children, children and young people carried out in
the fields of education, health and social care. It explores topics
central to the research process such as ethics, diversity, power
and the responsibilities of researchers. This is a project-based
module with no exam and it will help you to develop your own
research and analytical skills using audio, video and
online materials.
NEW Key questions in philosophy (A333)

Credits:
60 at OU level 3
This broad-ranging module investigates five different topics in

philosophy: truth in fiction, war, reason and action, the value of
life, knowledge and reason. Each topic is approached through
a set of significant and engaging questions. Why do people
seek out art that makes them cry? Can a war be fought justly?
Can organisations be held responsible for what they do?
What might it mean to say that life is sacred? Is science rational?
The study materials will enable you to examine these questions
in some depth while leaving space for independent study
and reflection.

Credits:
60 at OU level 3
This OU level 3 module uses traditional and cutting-edge social

psychological theories to explore some of the most exciting and
pressing issues we face in our complex, fast changing world.
Topics in the module include emotions, conflict, relationships,
the body, personality, prejudice and group processes.
Working with multimedia materials, you will develop advanced
academic skills of critical evaluation and argument and will
have the opportunity to conduct your own independent research
project consolidating and deepening your understanding.
The module will also contribute to your personal development
by encouraging you to reflect on your life in the light of social
psychologicalevidence.
40
Becoming an Open University student.

Studying with The Open University
Contact points for advice
and registration
Click www.openuniversity.co.uk/courses or call:
England, Scotland, Wales, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man
and BFPO addresses outside the UK: +44 (0)845 300 60 90.
How much will it cost if

you live in England?
Our standard fee for 2014/2015 is 5264 based on 120
credits of study which is equivalent to a years full-time study
at a campus-based university. If, like most of our students, you
choose not to study 120 credits a year, the price youll pay each
year will be a proportion of this fee:
Northern Ireland: 028 9032 3722.

Republic of Ireland: (01)6785399 or +44 28 9032 3722.
All other countries: +44 (0)845 241 6555.
When to apply
Apply as early as you can registration closing dates
for undergraduate qualifications are published in this
prospectus. For the most up-to-date information, click
www.openuniversity.co.uk/courses.
You should register well in advance of the closing date
if you wish to apply for financial support or credit for
previousstudy.
Credits
studied
each year1
Percentage
of standard
fee
Cost per
year
Time taken
to complete
a 360-credit
honours degree
30 credits
a year
25%
1316
12 years
part-time study
60 credits
a year
50%
2632
6 years
part-time study
120 credits
a year
100%
5264
3 years
full-time study
At todays prices the total cost of a 360-credit honours degree

would be 15,792.
For illustrative purposes only in most cases, you can vary the
number of credits you study each year. Most OU students study
an average of 60 credits a year.
Entry and study requirements

There are no formal academic entry requirements for most of our
undergraduate qualifications. However, even if there are no entry
requirements for your chosen qualification, you need to ensure
that you are sufficiently prepared for study at this level. The
qualification descriptions at www.openuniversity.co.uk/courses
will tell you more about our study requirements.
Computers and elearning

Yes for many people, a Tuition Fee Loan (student loan) is the
best way to fund study, regardless of age or income. TuitionFee
Loans are the most popular payment method for first-time
undergraduate students, and part-time students can now apply
for them too.
Tuition Fee Loans in a nutshell
Youll need a computer and regular and reliable access to the

internet in order to study with us.
Nothing to pay upfront.
Credit for previous study elsewhere
Repayments are based on what you earn, not what you owe
and are deducted automatically by your employer through the
UK tax system.
You may be able to count credit from previous higher education

towards an OU qualification, reducing the number of modules
you need to complete. For more information, see page 13 or click
www.openuniversity.co.uk/credit-transfer.
Fees and finance

The arrangements for the funding of higher education are
different across the four nations of the UK and internationally.
The fees and funding available to you are based on where you
are ordinarily resident.
As you study for your qualification youll pay your fees on
a module-by-module basis you wont have to pay for the
whole of your qualification upfront.
Nothing to pay for up to four years.
You only start making repayments when your salary exceeds

the income threshold, currently 21,000.
If your salary stops or drops below 21,000, your payments
stop too.
Interest is applied to your balance at the Retail Price Index
(RPI) plus up to three per cent, once the University confirms
that you are participating on your qualification.
Youre not committed to borrowing the cost of a full degree
you only borrow what you need to cover the coming
yearsfees.
Unlike other forms of borrowing, it doesnt affect your credit
rating and wont stop you getting a mortgage or car loan.
You can pay a Tuition Fee Loan off early if you want to.
After 30 years, any remaining balance you owe is written off,
no matter how much is left.
So, based on the current threshold of 21,000, say you earn

25,000 a year, youll only need to pay back nine per cent of your
income above 21,000, which works out at 30 a month about
the cost of a mobile phone tariff. Not insignificant, but achievable
for many people, especially as your payments stop if at any time
your incomes falls below 21,000.
How much will it cost if you live in

Northern Ireland?
The price you pay depends on the number of credits you study
each year:
Example repayment amounts (for illustrative purposes only)

Income each year before tax
41
Credits studied
each year1
Typical cost
per year2
Time taken to
complete a 360-credit
honours degree
Monthly repayment
Up to 21,000
30 credits a year
440815
12 years part-time study
22,000
60 credits a year
7751015
25,000
30
120 credits a year
15502885
3 years full-time study
30,000
67
At todays prices the typical cost of a 360-credit honours

degree would be between 4650 8655.
To qualify, youll need to study at a pace thats equivalent to at

least 25 per cent of a full-time student, which means at least an
OU module worth 30 credits every year. And youll need to be
studying for an undergraduate qualification thats higher than
any you already have.
Tuition Fee Loans are provided by Student Finance England.
For more information about Tuition Fee Loans, speak to an OU
adviser on 0845 300 60 90.


Yes the OU offers a range of other ways to pay your tuition fees:
Pay upfront for each module by credit/debit card or by
banktransfer.
Get employer sponsorship if your study will help you at work
your employer may be willing to sponsor you by paying some
or all of the fees. To find out more, speak to an OU adviser on
0845 300 60 90.
Use OU gift vouchers our gift vouchers can be used to
pay towards new or existing study. For more information,
click www.openuniversity.co.uk/gift-vouchers.
Do I qualify for any financial support?

If youre on a low income or are on certain benefits you could be
eligible for a free place on an Access module and/or be entitled
to support from the Access to Learning Fund:
Access modules if youre on certain benefits or have an
annual household income of less than 25,000 and are new to
higher education, you may be eligible for a free place on one of
our Access modules if you study the module as an additional
preparatory stage towards an OU qualification.
Access to Learning Fund means-tested, discretionary
support is available to help pay for study-related costs such
as travel, childcare and internet access.
Am I eligible for financial support?
To find out more, speak to an OU adviser on 0845 300 60 90.
Fees for professionally relevant programmes of study (e.g. law)

may be significantly higher than the ranges quoted.

There are two grants available to people living in Northern
Ireland and, depending on your income and your course of
study, you could apply for both. You may also be eligible for a
free place on an Access module and for extra help from Support
Funds to help pay for study-related expenses:
Fee Grant if you are on certain benefits or have an annual
household income not exceeding 25,420 you can apply for a
Fee Grant to go towards or even cover the cost of the modules
you study. The amount its worth depends on how much you
earn and how many credits youre studying for, but it could be as
much as 1230.
Course Grant if you are on certain benefits or have an annual
household income not exceeding 28,067 a year, you could
be eligible for a Course Grant to help you pay for other costs
of study, like a laptop, internet access or travel to tutorials its
worth up to 265.
You need to be studying between 30 and 120 credits worth of
modules to qualify (usually with a minimum of 30 credits for any
one module).
If you have a partner who is financially dependent on you, or
you have children, allowances are made that mean you can
earn more and still be eligible for both of these grants. These
allowances are 2000 for a partner, 2000 for your first child and
1000 for each further child.
So, if you have a partner and two children who are financially
dependent on you, you could have a household income of up
to 33,067 and be entitled to receive some financial support. If
you live with your parents, their income will not be included in any
assessment of your household income.
Access modules if youre on certain benefits or have an
annual household income of less than 25,000 and are new to
higher education, you may be eligible for a free place on one of
our Access modules if you study the module as an additional
preparatory stage towards an OU qualification.
42
Support Funds means tested, discretionary support is

available to help pay for study-related costs such as travel,
childcare and internet access.


banktransfer.
0845 300 60 90.

you live in Scotland?
Depending on your income and your course of study, you

could be eligible to apply for a Part-Time Fee Grant, Individual
Learning Account, a free place on an Access module, or for help
to pay for study-related expenses:
Part-Time Fee Grant if your personal income is 25,000 or
less a year, or youre on certain benefits, you can apply once
each year to have your module fees paid if you are studying
between 30 119 credits a year. You will need to have completed
your fee grant application by the final enrolment date of
yourmodule.
Skills Development Scotland Individual Learning
Accounts(ILAs) these are for people who are 16 or over and
living in Scotland. If you have an income of 22,000 a year or
less, or you are on benefits, you may be eligible to get up to
200 towards the costs of learning or training, which you can
use towards the fees of certain OU modules, including those
under 30 credits. You must ensure that your ILA application is
completed by the final enrolment date of the module youd like
to study.
Access modules if youre new to the OU, with little or no
experience of higher education and have a personal income of
25,000 or less, you may be eligible for a free place on one of
our Access modules.
Discretionary funds means-tested, discretionary support
is available to help pay for study-related costs such as travel,
childcare and internet access.
To find out more, speak to an OU adviser on 0131 226 3851.
each year:
Credits studied
each year1
Typical cost
per year2
Time taken to
honours degree
30 credits a year
440815
60 credits a year
7751015
120 credits a year
15502885

degree would be between 46508655.
1

2


banktransfer.
0845 300 60 90.
How much will it cost if you live in Wales?

each year:
Credits studied
each year1
Typical cost
per year2
Example repayment amounts (for illustrative purposes only)

Income each year before tax
Monthly repayment
Up to 21,000
Time taken to
honours degree
22,000
25,000
30
30,000
67
30 credits a year
440815
60 credits a year
7751015
120 credits a year
15502885

degree would be between 46508655.


Yes, new students in Wales starting their studies with the OU
from 1 September 2014 will be able to apply for a Tuition Fee
Loan (student loan) to fund study, regardless of age or income.
43
To qualify, youll need to study at a pace thats equivalent to at

least 25 per cent of a full-time student, which means at least an
OU module worth 30 credits every year. And youll need to be
studying for an undergraduate qualification thats higher than
any you already have.
Tuition Fee Loans are provided by Student Finance Wales.
Formore information about Tuition Fee Loans, speak to an OU
adviser on 0845 300 60 90.

Tuition Fee Loans in a nutshell
Nothing to pay upfront.
Nothing to pay for up to four years.

banktransfer.
Repayments are based on what you earn, not what you owe
and are deducted automatically by your employer through the
UK tax system.
You only start making repayments when your salary exceeds
the income threshold, currently 21,000.
If your salary stops or drops below the income threshold,
your payments stop too.
Interest is applied to your balance at the Retail Price Index
(RPI) plus up to three per cent, once the University confirms
that you are participating on your qualification.
Youre not committed to borrowing the cost of a full degree
you only borrow what you need to cover the coming
yearsfees.
Unlike other forms of borrowing, it doesnt affect your credit
rating and wont stop you getting a mortgage or car loan.
You can pay a Tuition Fee Loan off early if you want to.
After 30 years, any remaining balance you owe is written off,
no matter how much is left.
So, based on the current threshold of 21,000, say you earn
25,000 a year, youll only need to pay back nine per cent of
your income above 21,000, which works out at 30 a month.
Notinsignificant, but achievable for many people, especially
as your payments stop if at any time your incomes falls
below21,000.

0845 300 60 90.
Do I qualify for financial support?

There are several grants available to people living in Wales
depending on your income and your course of study:
Course Grant if you are on certain benefits or have an annual
household income less than 28,180 a year, you could be eligible
for a Course Grant to help you pay for other costs of study,
like a laptop, internet access or travel to tutorials its worth
up to 1155. Eligibility is dependent on the number of credits
youstudy.
If you have a partner who is financially dependent on you, or
you have children, allowances are made that mean you can earn
more and still be eligible for this grant. These allowances are
2000 for a partner, 2000 for your first child and 1000 for each
further child.
So, if you have a partner and two children who are financially
dependent on you, you could have a household income of up to
33,180 and be entitled to receive some financial support. If you
live with your parents, their income will not be included in any
assessment of your household income.
44
Other grants there is also some additional means-tested

support to help with study related costs as well as the
Adult Dependants Grant, Parents Learning Allowance and
ChildcareGrant.
Access modules
If youre on certain benefits or have an annual household income
of less than 25,000 and are new to higher education, you may
also be eligible for a free place on one of our Access modules if
you study the module as an additional preparatory stage towards
an OU qualification.

you live outside the UK?
Undergraduate fees for students resident outside the UK are
the same as those for students in England: 1316 for 30 credits;
2632 for 60 credits; and 5264 for 120 credits.
Do I have to pay upfront?

Not if you dont want to You can spread the cost of your studies
and pay as you go. Find out more about an account with Open
University Student Budget Accounts Ltd (OUSBA) and the option
of paying for your study in instalments as you go at www.open.
ac.uk/ousba-advert. You must be at least 18 years of age and
credit is subject to your financial circumstances and status.

banktransfer.
+44 (0)845 300 60 90.
If you have a disability

When you register to study with us, well ask you whether you
have a disability, health condition, mental-health disability or
specific learning difficulty (such as dyslexia) that might affect
your studies or examinations. If you do, well direct you to more
detailed information about the services we offer.
Disabled Students Allowance (DSA)

UK students only
Disabled Students Allowances help with study costs that
result directly from your disability or specific learning difficulty.
Allowances are not means-tested and may go towards specialist
equipment (such as an adapted computer), non-medical study
support (for example, a sign-language interpreter; a note-taker
or a dyslexia support worker) or other related expenses. You can
also apply for help with study-related travel costs that directly
result from your disability.
Eligibility and allowances depend on where you live and what
youre studying. If you are eligible for a DSA the University
will only provide study support that cannot be provided by
theallowance.
For information and advice about all services for students with
disabilities, speak to an OU adviser on +44 (0)845 300 60 90.
Studying outside the UK and the

Republic of Ireland
Wherever you are in the world, you may be able to study directly
with the OU or through one of our educational partners.
Direct study
For information on available qualifications, your study experience,
and what the OU can offer international students, click
www.openuniversity.edu or call +44 (0)845 241 6555.
Study with an educational partner

As an alternative to direct registration, the OU has many
educational partners around the world. You may be able to
study in your preferred language, study for a dual award or
get facetoface support from your local provider. For more
information, click www.openuniversity.co.uk/contact.
45
What else you should know
Ordering other prospectuses
Equality and diversity
This prospectus is one of a series of publications. If you would

like to find out more about our other study opportunities please
order one of the prospectuses listed below:
We are committed to fulfilling our vision of a fair and just

society. We are creating an inclusive university community and
a society where people are treated with dignity and respect,
where inequalities are challenged and where we anticipate and
respond positively to different needs and circumstances so
that everyone can achieve their potential. For more information,
see our Equality Scheme on our Equality and Diversity website:
www.openuniversity.co.uk/equality.
Open University Students

Association (OUSA)
You automatically become a member unless you choose to opt
out for more information, click www.ousa.org.uk.
Students under the age of 16

Very exceptionally, the University will consider applications
from particularly gifted students who are under the age of 16.
Acceptance will be at the discretion of the University.
Our statements of service

We are committed to working together as a community of
learners and to developing our students through high quality
teaching, learning and services. Our Essential documents
website www.openuniversity.co.uk/essential-documents
provides more detailed information about what you can expect
from us and what we expect from you.
Data protection
We record your personal information when you contact us and
use this to manage registration, study, examination and other
services. When you register, well tell you more about how we
process and use your personal information.
Recording phone calls

We may record our phone calls with you to make sure that weve
carried out your instructions correctly and to help us improve our
services through staff training.
Freedom of information
Information about the University can be found in our publication
scheme, click www.openuniversity.co.uk/foi. You have a general
right to information we hold that is not in our publicationscheme.
Undergraduate Prospectus
Getting started with The Open University
Access Module Certificates

Introductory modules to build your confidence
Undergraduate Modules Prospectus

Modules for study as standalone courses
Subject-specific prospectuses
For undergraduate study
Languages Prospectus
Social Sciences Prospectus
For undergraduate and postgraduate study
Arts and Humanities Prospectus
Business and Management Prospectus
Computing and IT Prospectus
Education, Childhood and Youth Prospectus
Engineering, Design and Technology Prospectus
Environment and Development Prospectus
Health and Social Care Prospectus
Law Prospectus
Mathematics and Statistics Prospectus
Science Prospectus
To download or order
a printed prospectus.
Click www.openuniversity.co.uk/prospectus
Call +44 (0)845 300 60 90
Any questions about

studying with us?
In England, Scotland, Wales, the Channel
Islands, the Isle of Man and BFPO
addresses outside the UK.
Click www.openuniversity.co.uk/courses
Service on +44 (0)845 300 60 90
Lines are open (UK time):
Monday to Friday 08:00 to 20:00
Saturday 09:00 to 17:00
Calls are charged at the UK local rate
when calling from a UK landline.
Email us from our website at
www.openuniversity.co.uk/contact
In Northern Ireland and

the Republic of Ireland.
For Welsh speakers.

If you would prefer to discuss your study needs
in Welsh, please contact:
The Open University in Wales,
18 Custom House Street, Cardiff, CF10 1AP
Call 029 2047 1170
Email wales@open.ac.uk
I siaradwyr Cymraeg.
Os ydych yn siarad Cymraeg a byddain well gennych
drafod eich anghenion astudio drwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg,
cysylltwch :
Y Brifysgol Agored yng Nghymru,
18 Heol y Tollty, Caerdydd, CF10 1AP
Ffoniwch 029 2047 1170
Ebost wales@open.ac.uk
Click www.openuniversity.co.uk/courses
In Northern Ireland
Call our Belfast office on 028 9032 3722
In the Republic of Ireland
Call our Enquiry and Advice Centre in Dublin on
(01)6785399 or our Belfast office on +44 28 9032 3722
Email ireland@open.ac.uk
All other countries.

Click www.openuniversity.edu
Call +44 (0)845 241 6555
Other ways to read

this prospectus
You may find it easier to access
information from our website at
www.openuniversity.co.uk/courses
If you would like this prospectus electronically,
please call +44 (0)845 300 60 90 or
email us from our website at
www.openuniversity.co.uk/contact
Other formats are available on request.
The Open University is incorporated by Royal Charter (RC 000391), an

exempt charity in England & Wales and a charity registered in Scotland
(SC 038302). The Open University is authorised and regulated by the
Financial Conduct Authority.
While we have done everything possible to make sure the information in
this publication is accurate, it may change due to regulations or policy,
or because of financial or other reasons.
Designed by Jaywing.
Printed by Belmont Press.
Copyright 2014 The Open University.
SUP 035630
Student Registration & Enquiry Service

The Open University
PO Box 197
Milton Keynes
MK7 6BJ
United Kingdom

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Psychology

Choose your qualification

Decide on the qualification you want to study, for example,

Wherever youre going, it starts here

For more information, click www.openuniversity.co.uk/ug.

Theres nothing distant about us 

To secure your place, you need to register dont worry,

Why choose us for psychology

Get the kind of CV employers

Choose your first module

Some of the modules in your chosen qualification will be

Becoming an Open University student

Sort out your funding

We can help you manage the costs, making study more

Complete your registration

Finally, well need a few personal details and your

Any questions about

Wherever youre going,

Were the UKs largest university

The OU rekindled my joy of learning things just

Were experts in flexible,

Someone logs onto our servers

We offer outstanding value

Were one of the worlds finest

Were more local than you think

Were just a phone call away

Every year, we help thousands of ordinary people achieve

Supported Open Learning has

Whats it like being part of

Our world-class library is

Support that continues when

Studying at home was ideal for me. I didnt want

We can help you approach your

A world-class education for

When it comes to managing the cost of your study, youve got

At the OU, we believe it doesnt matter where you start from

Ive been dipping in and out of the OU for the last

We support disabled students

Why choose us for psychology

A dynamic discipline that crosses all cultures and has global

New for 2014

The OU Psychological Society (OUPS)

Our research not only informs policy and practice, it also

The Societys primary purpose is to advance education in

Psychologists working within the Faculties of Education and

Conferences, held in conjunction with the summer schools,

Our Foundation Degree in Counselling and Diploma of Higher

If you want to know more, including finding out about

Get the kind of CV employers

Psychology is about people and uses a variety of ways to

As an OU psychology student, you will also have the opportunityto:

How did I become who I am?

combine your study of psychology with other disciplines,

Psychology is intrinsically of great interest to people and is a

Studying the OU Foundation Degree in Counselling will enable

can enhance understanding of human behaviour

communication and literacy

uses diverse forms of investigation to develop theories that

has many sub-disciplines or specialisations, which for

The professional skills gained by students of counselling that

What impact does divorce have on families?

The value of counselling to improve wellbeing and quality of life

OU study develops the skills

Wherever youre going, it starts here

Theres nothing distant about us

Becoming an Open University student

How you study with us

Degrees (with BPS accreditation)

BSc (Hons) Psychology (Q07)

Other degrees that include psychology 24

Certificate of higher education